Recognition of Men-B symptoms is central to the advice, as they can often be confused for flu, cold, or even a hangover. Notable signs of the illness include high fever, vomiting, rash, and severe headaches. A broader list of symptoms can be found on the NHS website.
Last week's outbreak has not affected Newcastle - or anywhere in the North East, for that matter. Most cases have been linked to a nightclub event in Canterbury, and Health Secretary Wes Streeting confirmed that the "public health risk to the wider population remains low" in parliament on Tuesday.
Last week's outbreak has not affected Newcastle - or anywhere in the North East, for that matter
Meningitis is an infection causing inflammation of protective membranes surrounding the spinal cord and brain. At least 6 of the 27 confirmed or suspected meningitis cases in Kent have thus far been identified as Men-B, a bacterial strain of the disease. 2 deaths have been confirmed. Frequent updates on the Kent outbreak can be found here.
The condition particularly affects babies, children, and young adults. Students are considered more vulnerable to the disease compared to the general population, on account of close, prolonged contact with peers from across the country. As such, Newcastle Student Health and Wellbeing Services advise that students should remain informed.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), as of March 18, advises those presenting symptoms associated with meningitis to contact their GP, or dial 111 for the NHS non-emergency medical helpline. Students who have not yet registered for a Newcastle-based GP can do so here.
The UK Health Security Agency, as of March 18, advises those presenting symptoms associated with meningitis to contact their GP, or dial 111 for the NHS non-emergency medical helpline
Those from the Kent area, and those travelling home for Easter, may find themselves experiencing particularly high concern around meningitis and its spread. Should they need it, Newcastle Students can find long term, in-person support through Student Wellbeing, or 24/7 online and telephone guidance via the Spectrum Life Wellbeing app.
For students living with health anxiety, any worries could be exacerbated. Those affected by such anxiety can access NHS guidance here.
Wes Streeting has confirmed that vaccinations are not a necessary precaution for the wider public, although the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation has been asked to review this advice. MenACWY vaccinations help to protect against four strains of bacterial meningitis - although this does not include Men-B - and can be accessed through a GP.
To check if you have received a vaccination for meningitis already, the NHS App can display your vaccination records, and may be a good place to start. If this is unclear, you can contact your GP for more detailed information.
In Kent, the promised rollout of Men-B vaccines has begun for UoK students. 5,000 are expected to receive immunisation in this initial phase. Close contacts of those with Men-B are being provided with prophylactic antibiotics "as a precautionary measure", according to the latest UKHSA advice.